Payload
A TypeScript-based headless CMS and application framework built on Next.js. Enables developers to build custom content-driven applications while providing marketers with intuitive content management tools.
Payload is an open-source alternative to:
Payload is an open-source headless CMS and application framework built with TypeScript and React. Designed for developers who want full control and marketers who need an intuitive interface, Payload simplifies content infrastructure while enabling the creation of custom applications.
Key Features
- Headless CMS: Manage content with a flexible, code-first approach
- Enterprise App Builder: Build custom applications with full backend capabilities
- Headless E-Commerce: Power online stores with customizable product management
- Digital Asset Management: Organize and serve media assets efficiently
- Multi-Tenancy: Support multiple projects or clients from a single instance
- Localization: Manage content in multiple languages and regions
- Access Control: Fine-grained permissions and user management
- Authentication: Built-in auth system with SSO support
- White Label: Customize the admin panel to match your brand
- Live Preview: Real-time content previews before publishing
- Enterprise Features: SSO, AI auto-embedding, publishing workflows, and visual editor (Enterprise plan)
Tech / Self-Hosting
Payload is a self-hosted solution that runs on Node.js and Next.js. It can be deployed on any platform supporting Node applications, including Vercel, AWS, or self-managed servers. The framework is designed for developers who prefer code-based customization over configuration-heavy solutions. Full TypeScript support ensures type safety throughout the development process.
Deployment options:
- Self-hosted (Node.js/Next.js)
- Vercel integration
- Docker support
- Cloud-agnostic
Tech stack:
- TypeScript
- React
- Next.js
- Node.js
- MongoDB (default) or any database via adapters